Whether you’re a longstanding admirer of Thonton Kabeya or you’re new to his work, his latest solo exhibition, Introspect, is a rare opportunity to engage with a decade of his artistic practice.
Opening at Wits Art Museum (WAM) on Tue, Aug 15, Introspect is framed as a mid-career survey – a chance for the artist and audience alike to take a look at his work thus far, appreciate how it’s developed, what it’s contributed to art and society, and see the direction it might be taking.
Originally from the Democratic Republic of Congo, and represented by Everard Read Gallery Kabeya has been living and working in Johannesburg for the past 10 years. Speaking to the body of work in Introspect, Kabeya says, “It is an introspection of a decade of living and working in the city.”
Kabeya has become well-known for his paintings that undergo a unique process. The artist glues layers of canvas together before cutting, carving, shaping and painting them. Newspaper cuttings and walnut powder then give his works their signature texture, depth and tactility. HIs works are full of movement, and a delight to study in detail.
